September 25, Colombo (LNW): The Department of Meteorology has issued a red-level warning for several sea areas, cautioning of powerful winds, heavy thunderstorms and hazardous conditions as a deep depression continues to influence weather patterns over the region.
According to the latest weather bulletin, the system, which had been positioned off the north Andhra Pradesh coast, moved gradually west-northwestwards before making landfall near Kalingapatnam.
At 5.30am today, the depression was located over northern coastal Andhra Pradesh, close to 18.3°N latitude and 83.7°E longitude. The system was estimated to be about 1,100 kilometres north-east of Kankesanthurai at the time.
Meteorologists expect conditions over the affected maritime zones to deteriorate, with winds in areas placed under the warning category potentially reaching speeds of around 70 kilometres per hour at times. Heavy thundershowers are also possible, accompanied by very rough seas.
Meanwhile, areas covered by the department’s advisory category could experience winds of between 55 and 65 kilometres per hour. Sea conditions in these locations are expected to range from rough to very rough periodically.
The authorities have issued a particular warning to naval personnel and fishing communities, urging them to stay away from the identified sea zones until further notice.
The areas under caution extend from 10°N to 22°N latitude and 82°E to 90°E longitude, covering a wide stretch of the surrounding maritime region.
Those already operating within the affected waters have been advised to leave the areas and move towards safer locations without delay, as deteriorating sea conditions could pose significant risks to vessels and crews.
The Meteorology Department has urged all relevant communities to closely monitor subsequent weather updates and comply with further safety instructions as the system develops.